Why Is My Dog Always Hungry? Understanding What’s Really Going On

Some pups act like they haven’t eaten in days, even if their bowl was licked clean ten minutes ago. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. A big appetite can be completely normal, but when your dog is constantly begging for food, it might be time to take a closer look.

Let’s explore the science and behaviour behind those hungry eyes and how to help your dog feel full, focused, and balanced.

Is It Real Hunger or Just a Habit?

Dogs are clever. If begging worked once, they will try it again. Over time, this can become a pattern, especially if it earns them treats, attention, or scraps from your plate.

That doesn’t mean you should ignore the behaviour. Sometimes, a seemingly endless appetite is your dog’s way of showing that something isn’t right. The key is understanding whether they’re truly hungry or just acting like it.

5 Common Reasons Your Dog Might Seem Hungry All the Time

1. Their food isn’t keeping them full
Not all meals are created equal. Diets that are low in protein or fibre can leave your dog feeling unsatisfied, even if they’re eating enough by volume.

Research in the British Journal of Nutrition by Bosch et al. (2009) found that different types of dietary fibre can influence satiety hormones and voluntary food intake in dogs. Meals with the right balance of high-quality protein and fibre help dogs stay fuller for longer.

2. They’re super active
Dogs who burn through energy on walks, runs, or play sessions may simply need more fuel. If your dog is full of energy but always hungry, they might benefit from a portion adjustment. We’ve got feeding guidelines to help, or you can speak directly to one of our vets for tailored advice.

3. Life stage matters
Puppies, adolescents, and older dogs all have different nutritional needs. A growing pup might genuinely need more food, while hormonal or metabolic changes in senior dogs can increase appetite, even if activity levels are lower.

4. Health issues could be at play
A sudden increase in hunger can signal medical concerns like diabetes, parasites, thyroid imbalances, or side effects from medication.
If your dog’s behaviour has changed and you notice other symptoms such as weight changes, pacing, or restlessness, check in with your vet.

5. Stress and emotional eating
Yes, dogs can comfort-eat too. Big life changes, noise sensitivity, or new additions to the home can all trigger anxious food-seeking behaviours. If mealtimes feel frantic, your dog might be using food to self-soothe. Research shows that stress and anxiety can influence appetite and wellbeing in dogs.

6. They’re a Labrador
It’s not just a stereotype. A study from Cell Metabolism by Raffan et al. (2016) discovered that many Labradors carry a POMC gene mutation that limits their ability to feel full. This genetic difference makes them more prone to overeating and weight gain if portions aren’t carefully controlled.

If your dog tends to overeat, focus on a high-protein, lower-fat diet and structured feeding to manage hunger safely.

Tips to Help a Hungry Dog Feel Truly Satisfied

Feed balanced, protein-rich meals
Start with the basics. Your dog’s food should be complete, vet-approved, and designed to support energy and satiety. Omni’s high-protein, high-fibre meals are formulated to help your dog feel genuinely full, not just temporarily satisfied.

Stick to a predictable routine
Dogs thrive on structure. Consistent feeding times can regulate hunger hormones and reduce the chances of attention-seeking between meals.

Make mealtimes last longer
Slow feeder bowls or food puzzles don’t just reduce gulping; they turn dinner into a mentally enriching experience. They can also help your dog feel fuller, faster.

Set clear boundaries
It’s hard to resist those eyes, but rewarding begging outside mealtimes teaches your dog that persistence works. Stick to your schedule and stay consistent.

When to Call the Vet

If you’re still unsure what’s behind your dog’s insatiable appetite, you’re not overreacting. Whether it’s nutritional, behavioural, or medical, our Omni vets are here to help. You’ll get science-backed advice and support tailored to your dog’s needs.

Food That Does More Than Fill the Bowl

Your dog’s meals should do more than stop their stomach from rumbling. At Omni, we’ve designed food that fuels, nourishes, and supports your dog’s whole wellbeing, body and mind.
With complete, plant-powered nutrition and carefully selected ingredients, our recipes help your dog feel satisfied, balanced, and ready for anything.

Explore our meals and find the perfect fit for your dog’s appetite, energy levels, and lifestyle.

If your dog already enjoys Omni, we’d love to hear your story. 

Sources

• Bosch, G., Verbrugghe, A., Hesta, M., Holst, J.J., Van Der Poel, A.F.B., & Janssens, G.P.J. (2009). The effects of dietary fibre type on satiety-related hormones and voluntary food intake in dogs. British Journal of Nutrition. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19144213
  
  

• Raffan, E. et al. (2016). A deletion in the canine POMC gene is associated with weight and appetite in obesity-prone Labrador Retriever dogs. Cell Metabolism. Available at: https://www.repository.cam.ac.uk/items/e9e98dcf-26fc-4ecf-a623-8b19953cbb9d